An Unpaid Intern's Week In New York, NY

An Unpaid Intern's Week In New York, NY

Welcome to Money Diaries, where we're tackling what might be the last taboo facing modern working women: money. We're asking millennials how they spend their hard-earned money during a seven-day period — and we're tracking every last dollar.

This week, we’re taking a look at the way interns are spending across the country. Internships can be a key way of getting experience, gaining entry into fields, and making connections, but not everyone has the ability — in terms of timing or finances — to make it happen. For those who do, managing an internship during the traditional work and school year, or working full-or-part-time over the summer can provide an exciting (or nerve-wracking!) preview of life after college.

Today: a grad student and unpaid intern who makes $15,000 per year and spends some of it on ingredients for cauliflower tacos and transparent umbrellas.

Occupation: Grad Student & College Counseling InternIndustry: Education Age: 24Location: New York, NYSalary: $15,000 (varies) Paycheck (Weekly): I try to make at least $300 per week from my retail gig, freelance tutoring and college advising, and babysitting — but it varies.

Monthly ExpensesHousing Costs: $600. I live in a 400-square-foot apartment with my boyfriend and an additional roommate and we have the deal of the century on rent. Loan Payments: $0. I am VERY lucky.

All Other Monthly Expenses:Gym Membership: $10 Internet & Utilities: $30 for my shareSavings: I aim to save at least $100 per month, but it depends on my income. Charitable Contribution: $25. This month, it was for an event whose proceeds went to victims of the Pulse Nightclub shooting.